Kresge named pro emeritus at Ridgefields

From staff reports
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May 16, 2018 at 9:54 PM

KINGSPORT — The Club at Ridgefields on Wednesday announced professional golfer Cliff Kresge as the club’s “pro emeritus.”

Kresge, who lives in Ridgefields with his wife, Judy, is a fixture in the Kingsport area. He is well known for his charity work through the Kresge’s Krew Foundation, which provides funds to local organizations, charities and therapists who specialize in aiding those with autism. The Kresges’ son has autism.

In November 2008, Kresge was the honorary walk chair for the Orlando Walk Now For Autism, a fundraiser for Autism Speaks. In September 2009, Kresge and Ernie Els, who also has a son with autism, joined 18 other PGA Tour players at Ridgefields Country Club for a charity pro-am to benefit the Kresge’s Krew Foundation.

Kresge owns three wins on the Nationwide Tour and won a 2011 NGA Hooters Tour event, the Bridgestone Winter Series at Deer Island, in a four-hole playoff.

His best finishes on the PGA Tour came in the 2002 B.C. Open and the 2008 Arnold Palmer Invitational. He tied for third in both tournaments. Kresge also tied for 10th in the 2003 U.S. Open.

“It’s impressive as to how Cliff has been extremely helpful and volunteers to aid in any way he can at Ridgefields,” Ridgefields officials said in a release. “Due to his tournament and travel schedule, he is only around part time. However, he is a great asset and we appreciate his sincere caring and dedication to Ridgefields Club."